She Turns Old Wood Pallets Into A Bar For A Small Patio

No matter how small your patio, you can turn it into a cocktail-worthy oasis. You just have to think outside the box ... or more like outside the pallet. DIY pro Christina Dennis demonstrated this in a YouTube video by turning scrap wood into a fully functional, small space-friendly bar. The key ingredient? A rustic wood pallet turned upright. This unassuming warehouse staple acts as the bar table frame all by itself — no need to go to a table-building workshop. One person commented, "The outdoor bar is so awesome," and they're so right. Of all the ways to upcycle wooden pallets, this is the most happy hour-worthy.

To replicate this idea, you'll need one wooden pallet, two 2-by-6-inch boards, one 2-by-4-inch board, a handful of 2 ½-inch wood screws, a power drill, a power saw, a sander, a level, and your choice of paint. Opt for boards that are at least 6 feet long since the average wooden pallet has a span of about 4 feet. You can always cut the ends of the boards if needed. Ultimately, the cost of this project will depend on what tools you already have and whether you pick up materials in person or opt for delivery. For example, you can get affordable wooden boards in-store at Home Depot, but if you shop online, the delivery fees can hike up the price tremendously. As for wooden pallets, you can get them for next to nothing on Facebook Marketplace. By being savvy with your shopping, you can create a stylish patio space without breaking the bank.

To start this outdoor bar DIY, use a level to check whether your pallet sits evenly on the patio surface. You may need to add shims under the pallet until it rests flat. If it's too wobbly, you can also attach extra boards underneath with your drill and screws for stability. Take one of the 2-by-6-inch boards and drill it into the middle of the pallet so half the board juts out, resembling a typical bar counter. Repeat with the other board, placing it next to the first on top of the pallet. Then, sand the surface.

In the original video, Christina doesn't say whether she anchored the bar to anything, but you can use no-drill mounting hardware like these Amuille Stainless Steel Siding Hooks to help lock the table in place. They come with rope-passing holes so you can loop twine or long zip ties through to secure the pallet to the side of your house. For a brick exterior, you'll need specialty masonry screws and mounting equipment. This step is super important since the table will be holding heavy bar essentials like beverage dispensers, ice buckets, and drinkware.

Since this wooden structure will be outside, use paint that not only transforms the wooden pallet into a stylish bar but also protects the materials from the elements. A great option is the Wolman White Outdoor Furniture Exterior Paint from Home Depot. After painting and letting the wood dry, the YouTuber strung pretty lights on her finished bar, but that's just one way to give it some extra flair. Add faux grass or an artificial palm thatch underneath for a cool tropical display. You can also use the openwork wood frame to weave festive garlands or greenery, which is perfect for a holiday celebration.